Those animals in the deer family are called cervidae or cervids. The most common species raised in Michigan are white-tailed deer, elk, red deer, fallow deer, sika deer, and reindeer. Also owned in Michigan are mule deer, muntjac, moose, axis deer, and Chinese water deer.

Michigan has over 800 privately owned cervidae facilities. The majority of the facilities have white-tailed deer and/or elk.

Deer and elk provide meat or venison for eating. Clothing, footwear, and purses are made from the hide. Antler velvet is used as a natural health dietary supplement, and deer urine is used for scents when hunting.

For more information about Michigan deer and elk, contact:

Michigan Deer and Elk Producers Committee
Michigan Deer and Elk Farmers Association